Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up in small towns but have lived and worked in larger cities like Miami and NYC. Widowed at 56, I sold everything and traveled the country in my little motorhome. In 2008, I met my current husband and the past almost ten years have been amazing.
I started writing, I visited all fifty states (rode 48 of them on my own motorcycle), lived in Ecuador for two years and much more. Life is an adventure!
I have three books published in my Klondike PA mystery series, two novellas in my Lei Crime Kindle World series (3rd on the way in 2018), a small town romance, as well as several short stories published in various anthologies and compilations.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My last book was “Paradise Dead”, a Lei Crime Kindle World novella. It’s set in Hawaii and was inspired by folks we met on a cruise – members of a band. Most were young enough to be our grandchildren, but we formed close friendships with them. Now they are featured in a mystery where someone is killing them off, one by one.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I rarely write at my desk, preferring my lapdesk while sitting in my reclining loveseat in my living room. That said, my first couple of books were almost entirely written while sitting in a McDonald’s!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read voraciously when growing up, everything I could get my hands on. As an adult I read of lot of classic science fiction from those like Arthur C. Clarke, Robert Heinlein, and others. Then came fantasy from Tolkein and generational history from James Michener. That’s not to say I didn’t read my share of romance novels including historically influenced ones like Diana Gabaldon’s Highlander series. Then came my crime thrillers from James Patterson, Lisa Gardner, Sandra Brown and others. My current day favorites are indie authors like JB Lynn, Nick Russell, Jamie Lee Scott, Brandon Hale and Meghan Ciana Doidge.
What are you working on now?
I am writing the third Lei Crime Kindle World book, “Paradise Drift”. It will be set in Hawaii on the island of Kauai as were the first two books, “Paradise Down” and “Paradise Dead”.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’d have to say word of mouth and reviews help the most. I also write sporadic blog posts and send out an infrequent newsletter.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
To quote Nike, “Just do it!”. You can read forever, at some point you have to stop to write. I also recommend getting the first draft written before you start editing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Get a professional book designer, work with professional editors, and get your book written!
What are you reading now?
Unfortunately I don’t read when I am writing. I am looking forward to catching up my favorite authors as well as discovering new ones in the near future.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Currently I am planning on taking a few months off before tackling a new series with a new character, Lia Rules. Written in first person with a dash of humor (light and dark), this will be a challenge for me.
What is your favorite book of all time?
I wish I could pick just one…sorry!
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